The Gold Coast SUNS have this week joined in the Christmas festivities alongside Major Charity Partner RizeUp Australia to launch this year’s RizeUp Christmas Gift Appeal.

Now in its ninth year, the Gold Coast-based organisation’s annual Christmas Gift Appeal aims to bring joy and comfort to families affected by domestic violence this holiday season.

GC SUNS AFL players Bailey Humphrey and Jed Walter were on hand this week, sorting and packing gifts to be distributed to families in need.

Second-year SUN Walter said it was a rewarding opportunity alongside RizeUp team members and volunteers.

“The work that RizeUp does to help families suffering from domestic violence right across Australia is incredible,” Walter said.

“Everyone deserves the chance to safely and comfortably enjoy Christmas and it was amazing to see the number of gifts that have been donated as part of this year’s Christmas Gift Appeal.

“It’s a really rewarding experience to help give a bit of joy to families who are going through difficult times.”

Since it was founded in 2015, RizeUp has assisted more than 17,500 families and 35,000 children as well as providing almost 3,000 furnished homes to afford a fresh start for families fleeing domestic violence.

Frontline services managing domestic violence related calls experience increases of between 20-40% during the Christmas period. RizeUp CEO and Founder Nicolle Edwards says the support of many organisations, like the Gold Coast SUNS, allows RizeUp to provide more than just gifts each Christmas.

“Our RizeUp Christmas Gift Appeal is about more than just gifts; it’s about delivering hope, comfort, and a sense of normalcy to families rebuilding their lives after the trauma of domestic and family violence,” Edwards said.

“With the incredible support of the Gold Coast SUNS, we can ensure that children wake up to the joy of Christmas morning and parents feel the relief of community care.

“Together, we’re not only lightening the load for those in crisis but also showing them they are valued, loved, and never alone. This partnership embodies the spirit of the season—compassion, generosity, and the power of a united community.”

The Austworld Centre (296 Nerang-Broadbeach Rd, Carrara) is once again one of numerous official donation collection points for this year’s Christmas Gift Appeal. Donations can be made until Friday, December 13.

The full list of collection points can be viewed here or on the RizeUp Australia website.

If you or anyone you know needs help, contact the national helpline 1800RESPECT or your local domestic violence centre.